Travel around Tashkent with Bobby
Day 1The Heart of the City
I arrived in Tashkent early in the morning and checked into the beautiful Lotte City Hotel, located right in the historic center. After a quick breakfast, I set off to explore Independence Square, a symbol of Uzbekistan’s independence. The grand fountains and gardens made for a perfect start to the day. Just a short walk away was Amir Timur Square, where I admired the massive statue of Amir Timur, one of Central Asia’s greatest historical figures. The surrounding architecture is a fascinating mix of Soviet-era buildings and newer developments, making it a great place to feel the pulse of the city.
For lunch, I headed to Plov Center, where I had my first taste of the city’s iconic dish, plov—a fragrant mix of rice, lamb, and spices. It was absolutely delicious and filling. In the afternoon, I wandered through the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, Tashkent’s largest market. Here, I saw stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, and beautiful Uzbek handicrafts. I couldn’t resist picking up some hand-painted ceramics as souvenirs.
At the end of the day, I took the metro back to my hotel, which is not only efficient but also a piece of history in itself. The Tashkent Metro stations are works of art, each one unique and beautifully decorated. That evening, I relaxed with a nice dinner at Navvat, a local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek dishes.
Don't skip the metro; it’s cheap, convenient, and gives you a chance to see the artistic stations. Try the plov early in your trip—it’s a dish you'll likely want more of!
Day 2A Glimpse into the Past
Day two was all about diving into Tashkent’s history. I started with a visit to the Khast Imam Complex, a spiritual and cultural center that houses the world-famous Quran of Caliph Uthman. The blue-domed mosques and medresehs (Islamic schools) here are stunning and provide a deep sense of tranquility.
Lunch took me to Afsona, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Uzbek cuisine. I tried the samsa, a flaky pastry filled with spiced meat, and the manti, a type of dumpling. Both were flavorful and perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.
In the afternoon, I explored the Museum of Applied Arts, a hidden gem showcasing beautiful embroidery, ceramics, and carpets. It’s a wonderful place to dive into Uzbekistan’s rich craftsmanship. I then strolled through Navoi Park, a peaceful green space in the heart of the city where locals come to relax and enjoy the lakes and gardens.
That night, I decided to experience Tashkent’s nightlife. I ventured out to Chelsea Pub, a popular spot among both locals and tourists. The lively atmosphere and live music made for a fun evening out.
Afsona provided an exceptional dining experience, offering a modern twist on traditional Uzbek cuisine. The samsa and manti were perfectly seasoned, and the restaurant’s ambiance was inviting and cozy. A great place for a leisurely meal.
Food
Once again, the comfort of Lotte City Hotel did not disappoint. After a long day of exploring, returning to the well-equipped room with fast Wi-Fi and a luxurious bed was a treat. I appreciated how close it was to the main tourist spots.
Accomodation
The Khast Imam Complex was the highlight of the day, with its spiritual and historical significance. Seeing the Quran of Caliph Uthman was awe-inspiring. The Museum of Applied Arts provided a quieter, more intimate look at Uzbekistan’s rich craftsmanship.
Activity
The Khast Imam Complex is a must-see for history lovers. Be sure to have a guide or read up on its significance to fully appreciate its importance.
Day 3The Green City
Tashkent is known for its parks, and I dedicated day three to exploring its green spaces. I started my day at the beautiful Botanical Garden, a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Walking through the garden’s lush paths, I found myself surrounded by rare plants and trees.
Later in the day, I took a short trip to Tashkent Tower, one of the tallest structures in Central Asia. From the observation deck, I enjoyed panoramic views of the entire city, with the distant mountains visible on the horizon. It’s a sight you simply can’t miss.
For lunch, I visited Caravan, a restaurant famous for its eclectic décor and authentic Uzbek dishes. The shashlik, or grilled meat skewers, were succulent and packed with flavor. Afterward, I spent the afternoon at the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, which offers an in-depth look at the region’s history from ancient to modern times.
That evening, I decided to try something different and went to Piligrim’s, a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city at night. The atmosphere was relaxed, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day.
Caravan delivered a fantastic Uzbek dining experience with a wide range of traditional dishes. The shashlik skewers were juicy and full of flavor, and the restaurant’s eclectic décor added to the charm. However, service was a bit slow due to the evening rush.
Food
By the third day, I had really settled into the comfort of Lotte City Hotel. The staff was attentive, and the room was kept impeccably clean. It remained an ideal base for my daily adventures.
Accomodation
The Botanical Garden was a serene escape, and I loved the variety of plants. Tashkent Tower, on the other hand, gave me the most breathtaking views of the city. These activities balanced nature and urban exploration perfectly.
Activity
The Tashkent Tower gives you the best views of the city—go during sunset for an unforgettable experience. Also, take your time exploring the parks; they’re a breath of fresh air.
Day 4A Journey Through Time
On my final day, I took a trip slightly outside the city to visit the Shaykhantaur Complex, an important historical site that dates back to the 14th century. This is one of Tashkent’s oldest landmarks, and it was fascinating to see how well-preserved the mausoleums are.
For lunch, I treated myself to a more modern experience at Bon!, a trendy cafe with a fusion menu. The food was lighter than traditional Uzbek fare, which was a nice change after days of hearty meals. Afterward, I spent the afternoon shopping for souvenirs at Samarqand Darvoza, a large shopping center with both modern stores and traditional handicrafts.
As my final stop, I visited Broadway Street, a lively pedestrian zone filled with street artists, cafes, and shops. It was the perfect way to wrap up my time in Tashkent, with a last stroll through its vibrant atmosphere.
Bon! offered a refreshing change with its fusion-style menu. The lighter fare was exactly what I needed after several days of hearty meals. The café had a relaxed atmosphere and excellent service, making it a nice spot for a laid-back lunch.
Food
Lotte City Hotel remained a consistently excellent choice throughout my stay. The late checkout option on my last day allowed me to explore the city without rushing, which I greatly appreciated.
Accomodation
The Shaykhantaur Complex was a fascinating historical site, offering a deep dive into Tashkent's ancient history. Broadway Street provided a lively, modern contrast to the day, with street artists and vibrant energy. It was the perfect way to end my trip.
Activity
If you want to see Tashkent’s more modern side, head to Broadway Street for a lively afternoon. And don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs—ceramics and textiles make great gifts!
Summary of My Trip
My four days in Tashkent were a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, offering a deep dive into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From day one, I was immersed in the city’s bustling heart, exploring iconic spots like Independence Square and Amir Timur Square. The energy of Chorsu Bazaar and the delicious local cuisine, especially plov, made me feel right at home. As I ventured into historical gems like the Khast Imam Complex and the Museum of Applied Arts, I gained a greater appreciation for Uzbekistan’s heritage, while the peaceful parks and impressive metro system added to the city’s unique charm.
In the following days, I embraced Tashkent’s greener side with visits to the Botanical Garden and a trip up Tashkent Tower for stunning panoramic views. The combination of history and modernity continued to impress me, especially as I explored ancient sites like the Shaykhantaur Complex and finished with the lively atmosphere of Broadway Street. Each day brought something new, from the cultural richness to the local dining experiences, and the warmth of the people made it even more memorable. Tashkent is a city that balances tradition with progress, and I left with a deep admiration for its unique character.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Tashkent really exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that makes it stand out from other places I’ve visited. From the vibrant markets like Chorsu Bazaar to the peaceful parks and impressive Soviet-era architecture, there’s so much to see and do. I loved how accessible everything was, whether by walking or using the efficient metro system, which is an experience in itself with its artistic stations. The food, especially the local dishes like plov and shashlik, was incredibly flavorful and offered a true taste of Uzbekistan’s rich culinary heritage.
At Plov Center, I had my first taste of Tashkent's iconic dish, plov. The rice was perfectly cooked, mixed with tender lamb and flavorful spices. It was a hearty and delicious meal, but I felt the portion could have been a bit larger for the price.
Food
Lotte City Hotel provided a fantastic stay with spacious, comfortable rooms and excellent service. The hotel’s central location made it easy to explore the city, and the breakfast was a highlight, offering a variety of local and international options.
Accomodation
Exploring the central squares of Tashkent was a perfect introduction to the city. Independence Square was grand and peaceful, while Amir Timur Square offered a fascinating mix of historical and modern architecture. Both places were ideal for taking in the city’s atmosphere.
Activity